Storm-Proof All Year: The Measures You Can Take

Every year, the US faces multiple episodes of hurricanes, blizzards, floods, hail, tornadoes, and other extreme weather conditions. The 2020 Atlantic hurricane saw 31 tropical depressions, 30 of which became hurricanes or tropical storms. Six of these hurricanes were categorized as significant, making 2020 the most active hurricane season in the US.

Weather patterns are changing, and if you're not vigilant, your home could face the most significant hurricane unprepared. High waves and strong winds from the storm will either destroy or damage your home. As a homeowner, you'll need to take proactive measures to protect your home - not just during the peak season but year-round.

So, where do you start with your anti-storm campaign? Should we look into stormwater management services? Is it wise to stock up on supplies now?

Consider the following suggestions. 

Maintain Areas Around Your Home

When preparing for a storm, clean and inspect gutters and trim trees away from the house. Also, make sure that gutters and downspouts are securely attached to your home. The heavy rain can cause an overflow of water, which may pull the downspouts and gutter from the house. Also, check for leaks in the gutter seams to prevent wood rot. If leaks are present, replace or repair your gutters.

On the ground, check the downspouts to ensure they are in good condition and unbroken. This minimizes your risk for seepage into basements and the foundation of your home. Also, fill in any cracks that you see. Caulking dries, and wood shrinks so, whether your home is new or old, check the external caulking yearly and conduct a thorough inspection every three to two years.

Clean Your Yard

The most straightforward storm-proof measure homeowners can take cleaning up their yard. During a hurricane, things can fly around your surroundings. That includes dangerous debris. So, before the hurricane arrives, clean your yard. Consider skip hiring to manage your waste efficiently.

Secure your yard ornaments, trashcans, and lawn furniture. If you have potted plants, a grill, or other lawn accessories, bring them in. Don't forget to remove the dying and dead limbs from your trees. Also, clear out anything small that you can carry or pick up. The high-speed winds of hurricanes can make any object fly like missiles, finally tie down more oversized items like swing sets, sheds, and doghouses.

Reinforce Entry Points

Your garage is your home's most significant entry point, making it a highly vulnerable area, especially during the hurricane. If you don't have a sturdy garage door, the heavy winds could damage the opening, causing a build-up of air pressure, which can blow off your roof.

If you live in a hurricane-prone location, investing in hurricane-resistant garage doors is worth your time AND money. These doors have extra hardware, steel reinforcements, and spring components that provide more durability and strength against severe wind pressures. Check the manufacturer's specifications for wind resistance and make sure you meet your area's code requirements.

But if you don't have the budget for hurricane-resistant garage doors, you can still protect them during a hurricane. Use removable aluminum panels and galvanized steel, which you can mount to the garage door before a storm.

For your entry doors, fiberglass remains the best material for storm-proofing.

Prevent Water Leakage

Keeping moisture out is one of the most critical storm-proofing tasks to do, particularly when hail pummels your barriers. Any water that enters the shell of your home creates a perfect condition for mildew and mold growth, which results in wood rotting. If left unchecked, these minor issues will grow into major problems.

Paint or stain structures regularly to create a moisture barrier. Fortunately, today's paint selection is more durable than before but don't assume they will stay forever. When hurricane-proofing your home, check vulnerable areas to ensure that hail, rain, or other storms haven't compromised the paint before your warranty expires.

Other Areas to Check

Clean your chimney before a storm. If the hurricane cuts off your power supply, your fireplace will become an essential source of heat. Make sure that it is safe for use and change the filter if necessary.

Also, check your roof for cracked tiles, loose shingles, and moss. Next, check your attic for the presence of animals, water stains, and light coming through the roof.

Weather the storm comfortably by staying safe and prepared. Storms can happen at any time - no matter what the season is. Preparation and storm-proofing go a long way toward minimizing or preventing damage.